Joseph Leo Horil

Joseph Leo Horil, age 101 years, a lifelong resident of Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, has left this world for his eternal heavenly home on Friday, September 24, 2021. Never married and with no children of his own, he was nonetheless an influential figure in the lives of hundreds if not thousands.  An admired champion of fun, education and fortitude, he was dedicated to constantly connecting with family, friends, business partners and strangers alike.  Having outlived all of his contemporaries and many of his juniors, his tenacity in pursuing others in conversation kept him engaged with people of all ages through the very end. The son of first-generation immigrants, and growing up during the Great Depression, he learned to work hard for success. Joe genuinely wanted others to also strive for success as evidenced by his ever-present encouragement and reaching out. In 1942 Joe suspended his study of pre-law at Loyola New Orleans to enlist in the Navy and serve his country. Stationed at Fort San Cristóbal in Puerto Rico, he was involved with protecting oil supplies in the region. Joe also served at a transmitter station in Annapolis, MD. After the end of World War II, Joe worked through the ranks as a Food Broker, eventually becoming sole proprietor of Fortier, Brown and Horil Food Brokers. In this capacity he earned the title Dean of Beans. Joe was particularly dedicated in providing daily attention to his mother, Cora Leona Schulz Horil, and uncle, Paul R. Horil, during their extended illnesses of many years. Joe was an avid fisherman who frequented Lake Borgne, launching at Campos in Shell Beach.  He was well-known as Captain of The Pride of Shell Beach, a small tri-vee hull boat. In his later decades Joe was an active member and promoter of the Camellia Club of New Orleans, where he maintained lifelong friendships. Once asked what was his secret to life, Joe offered ‘never hold a grudge’. Beloved son of the late Ferdinand J. Horil, Sr. and late Cora Leona Schulz Horil.  Loving brother of Leona Horil Buchert (Raymond), Evelyn Horil Elfer (John T.), Ferdinand J. Horil, Jr. (Rhea) and Herbert H. Horil, Sr. (Ouizzie).  He is survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and acquaintances in whom he has left an indelible impression.
The family expresses deep gratitude to the heroes and angels of St Francis Villas and Joe’s caretakers for their love and attention.
Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Funeral Mass in the J. Garic Schoen Chapel of Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home, 3827 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70119 on Friday, October 8, 2021 at 11:00 AM with visitation beginning at 9:00 AM. Interment will follow in Metairie Cemetery. In lieu of usual remembrances, contributions to Good Shepherd School Attn: NuriaArias,1839 Agriculture Street, New Orleans, LA 70119 (504) 598-9399 http://www.thegoodshepherdschool.org/give-now.html are preferred. 

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